On a recent evening there, friends and I didn’t have to think twice before deciding on a trip out to Wrigley Field to watch the Cubbies play a make up game against the Houston Astros.

The stadium is located at 1060 W. Addison Street, in a residential area called Wrigleyville. Movie fans may recall that this is the home address given by Elwood Blues (played by Dan Aykroyd) in The Blues Brothers. The area around the stadium has lots of little bars and restaurants, and we had no problem finding a place for a cold beer before the game. We had no problem buying tickets on a walk up basis, but that may have been because this was a make up game. If you want tickets for a popular game, you’d be well advised to buy tickets in advance.

Built in 1914, Wrigley is the second oldest active major league ballpark, right behind Fenway Park in Boston.

As a big baseball fan, I’m trying to visit a lot of the ballparks. (You can read about my adventure to Yankee Stadium here.) I’ve always appreciated these classic ballparks, and Wrigley is one of my favorites. Here are a few reasons why:

• It has dug outs that are really dug out.
• The ivy wall in center field, with the manually operated scoreboard.
• The rooftop businesses and residences around the outfield, where people gather to eat, drink, and watch the game.
• Former announcer Harry Caray.
• The goat curse. (Legend has it that the team was cursed for insulting a patron’s goat.)

Wrigley Field is accessible by public transportation. We were staying near the airport, and took the Blue Line to Addison, and then the 152 bus directly to the stadium. (A one day CTA pass costs $5, and covered both the train and the bus). It’s a very easy trip. The Red Line stop at Addison is about a block away from the stadium.

I don’t know whether this is true, or just an urban legend, but after a game a flag is supposedly put up to signify a win (white flag with blue “W”) or a loss (blue flag with white “L”) so that riders on the train will know the result of the game. Anyone know if this is really true or not?

And by the way, the Cubbies won the night we were there, beating the Astros by a score of 2-1.

Photo credit: wikimedia (Wrigley sign), others from my personal collection. __________________________________________________
Tags: b5media, baseball, Chicago, flight attendants, Flyaway Cafe, outdoor activities, travel, travel blogs, vacation, Cubs, Wrigley Field

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Long before I knew all the states, or had visions of traveling to all of them, I knew about Tennessee. Although I may be dating myself here, it all goes back to watching the Disney movie, Davy Crockett, who was “Born on a mountain top in Tennessee, The greenest state in the land of the free. . . .” (If you’re not familiar with the song you can listen to it here.) Well, maybe that didn’t tell me much about the state, but the belief that it was lush and verdant stuck with me.

Tennessee is a southern state, bordered by eight other states. (Missouri also borders eight states.) It’s been known as the “Volunteer State,” a nickname going back to the War of 1812 when volunteer soldiers played a crucial role during the Battle of New Orleans. The University of Texas also adopted the nickname and mascot of the Volunteers.

The state is also known for the Tennessee Valley Authority. Born out of the desperate need to create work during the Great Depression, the TVA has become the largest public utility in the country. It was because of its management of electrical power that the Manhattan Project located sites in the area.

Nashville, the capital city, is known as home to country music and the Grand Ole Opry (in photo).  Although it is not the largest city (that’s Memphis), the Nashville metro area is the most heavily populated area in the state. The rural area contains many beautiful parks and sites that honor the state’s history, and validates its standing as the “greenest state in the land of the free.”

Photo credit: flickr

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Tags: b5media, flight attendants, Flyaway Cafe, music, travel, travel blogs, vacation, Tennessee

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A day of remembrance and thanks to those who gave their life in service to our country. Their sacrifices, securing our liberties and freedoms, are not forgotten.

Photo credit: MorgueFile

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Post from: Fly Away Cafe

I have many favorite places to visit when I’m in New York. There are lots of great places for shopping, eating and drinking, and just wandering around. One of my very favorite places, however, is a quiet oasis in the otherwise frenzied pace that is Manhattan — the New York Public Library.

I’d seen the library in movies long before I saw it in person. It was featured in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Escape From New York, and the library’s basement was the location of a ghost sighting in Ghostbusters. If a movie is set in New York, watch carefully, and you may catch a glimpse of the famous stone lions which guard the library.

The NYPL has both a circulating public library and a huge research (non-lending) library, making it one of the largest libraries in each category. It is a private, non-profit corporation (not a governmental entity), although it does rely on both private and public financing for its continued existence and growth. The NYPL systems consists of 86 libraries in all. This includes the four main lending libraries, four specialized research libraries. a library for the blind, and 77 branch libraries, not only in Manhattan, but also in the Bronx and Staten Island

The NYPL was founded by the 1886 estate of Samuel J. Tilden, who left money to “establish and maintain a free library and reading room in the city of New York.” Although there were two other libraries open in New York at that time, both were experiencing serious financial hardships. The trustee of Tilden’s estate saw the perfect opportunity to fulfill that vision, and the libraries were combined, forming what became the New York Public Library. A number of years later, philanthropist Andrew Carnegie donated money to construct branch libraries which would be maintained by the City.

You’ll find the central library on Fifth Avenue between 40th and 42nd Street. It has expanded since its inception, primarily in an underground expansion on the Bryant Park side. The library is a Beaux-Arts design, flanked on either side of the main entrance by two stone lions guarding the premises. Although the lions have been through a couple of name changes, since the 1930’s they have been known as “Patience” (on the south side) and “Fortitude” (on the north side). I love the lions!

The beautiful main reading room of the Research Library is often seen in photographs (at right), but in person, it is truly spectacular. It is long, with large windows and high ceilings (52 feet), and is lined with thousands of books along both the floor and balcony level. In this room you can read at the study tables, or in the comfortable chairs, from the non-circulating book collections. Or, do what I did. Just go sit in the room and soak up the history and ambience of the magnificent room, its architecture, and history.

You do not need a library card to visit the library, or for onsite use. If you wish to check out material, or use the extensive online resources, you will need a library card. Library cards are free for anyone who lives, works, pays property taxes, or attends school in New York State. If you don’t fall into one of those categories, you are subject to a $100 per year library card fee. The libraries are free to all researchers, even though they may not fit into one of the above residency categories. All that’s needed in an ACCESS Card, which can be obtained from a librarian. The ACCESS Card will allow you to use anything from the library’s collection on-site.

One of the very cool features of the library is its telephone reference system. Staffed with expert researchers, the they are required to answer each telephone inquiry in less than five minutes. That question that you’ve been noodling around for weeks will be answered by a researches in less than five minutes. They’ll get you the specific answer, or refer you to a place to get the answer (website, trade group, specialty library, etc.). That’s impressive! The reference system operates Monday – Saturday, 9 am – 6 pm (Eastern Time), and can be reached at (212) 340-0849. It handles questions from people around the world, but will not answer crossword or contest questions, offer philosophical speculation, or do your homework!

The library is located at 455 Fifth Avenue (at 40th Street). Hours are Monday – Wednesday, 9 am – 9 pm; Thursday – Saturday 10 am – 6 pm; closed Sunday. The library can also be rented out for private events and parties.

It’s worth stopping by, even if the library is closed, just to appreciate the architecture!

Photo credit: wikimedia

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Tags: b5media, flight attendants, Flyaway Cafe, Manhattan, New York, NYC, travel, travel blogs, vacation

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The exchange is located in Manhattan at 11 Wall Street (between Broad & New), but actually consists of five building, or “rooms,” that are used for trading. The main building (18 Broad Street, between Wall Street & Exchange Place) is a National Historic Landmark.

The roots of the NYSE reach back to 1792 at the Buttonwood Agreement. From that agreement, named for the buttonwood tree that it was signed beneath, the current concept of trading grew. The exchange’s current location is not far from its original location at 40 Wall Street, but the building, like the system of trading, has grown exponentially since the beginning.

When I first walked by the exchange, a couple of things raced through my mind. First, I thought about our whole capitalistic system, and what part the exchange played in all of that. Then, I thought about the movies that portrayed a frenzy on the trading floor (”Wall Street” and “Trading Places”). Then, I wondered if any of that was true — so I stood outside the door, hoping that when someone went in or out, that I’d be able to see something. No luck!

Unfortunately, and due to heightened security restrictions, the exchange no longer offers public tours. A call to their public office reaches a recording that says that it is closed to tours indefinitely, and that they are not taking appointments. That number is (212) 656-5168.

For now, you’ll have to content yourself with a walk by this historical location, and maybe if you stand around long enough, you’ll get a glimpse at what’s inside.

The exchange can be reached by subway: 2, 3, 4, or 5 to Wall Street, or the N, R, or W to Rector.

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Tags: architecture, b5media, flight attendants, Flyaway Cafe, Manhattan, New York, NYC, travel, travel blogs, vacation, stock exchange, NYSE

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If you were planning a romantic escape, where would it be?

If you were vacationing alone, and wanted to visit a city where there were lots of friendly people, which city would you choose?

These, and other similar questions, are answered by prospective travelers on a regular basis, because although travelers may want to see some of the major attractions in a city, they do not want to feel like a tourist. It’s a delicate balance between seeing the sights, and going where the locals go. That balance is part of what I hope our Travel & Culture blogs bring to your travel planning, research, and reading.

Here’s an opportunity to weigh in with what you think about some of your favorite cities with Travel + Leisure’s America’s Favorite Cities Survey, 2007. The list includes 25 cities that magazines has deemed the “hottest.” Among them are cities represented in b5media’s Travel & Culture Channel — Chicago, Seattle, and Washington DC — along with cities from all corners of the United States.

Filling out the survey with opinions about your favorities cities will not only help improve the accuracy of the results, but it also enters you to win a trip to Australia.

So —

If you needed to get away for a weekend of power shopping, where would you go?

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Tags: b5media, flight attendants, Flyaway Cafe, travel, travel tips, vacation

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A very big, and excited. welcome to Matt B, and The Chicago Traveler.

As regular readers here at Flyaway Cafe know, I get to the Windy City on a not infrequent basis, and Matt has already written about lots of things that interest me. I’m always looking for places that the “locals” go, for that fun blend of being a tourist, yet feeling like a local. So head over to The Chicago Traveler and give it a read. Chances are that you’ll enjoy what Matt has to say as much as I do.

Welcome aboard, Matt! I’m glad to have you blogging along with the rest of this great channel!

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Tags: b5media, flight attendants, Flyaway Cafe, travel, vacation, Chicago, travel blogs, destination blogs, citys blogs

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Minnesota is the 12th largest state (geographically) in the U.S., and is the northernmost of the contiguous 48 states. Most of the residents of the state (60%) live in the Minneapolis-St Paul area, which is generally referred to as the Twin Cities. The state ranks 21st in population.

The Twin cities of Minneapolis/St Paul combine the largest city in the state (Minneapolis) with the capital city (St. Paul). It is the hub of the state, and the center for business, industry and culture. The rest of the state is primarily rural, and consists of prairies, forests, farm land, and lakes. Let’s not forget those lakes, as Minnesota is known as the “Land of Ten Thousand Lakes.”

Minnesota has extreme weather, both frigid winters and hot, humid summers. The difference between these temperature has been known to be a swing of over 150 degrees. You might think that extreme temperatures leads to extremism in the population, but nothing could be further from the truth. Minnesota has a highly educated and literate population, and the state is known for its moderation — socially, politically, and culturally.

Early Minnesota industries were fur trading and agriculture, and while fur trading has fallen by the wayside, agriculture still play a major part of the economy. The state is the largest US producer of sugar beets and sweet corn, and if you’ve enjoyed a farm-raised turkey for your Thanksgiving dinner, chances are good that it was raised in Minnesota. Shopping is also big business in Minnesota, and was the location for the first US shopping mall (Edina’s Southdale Center), and the largest indoor shopping center (Mall of America).

It’s not all business in Minnesota, though, and the Twin Cities is home to a number of outstanding fine arts museums, including the Walker Art Center (in photo above), and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. Those cold, cold winters force people indoors, and the music and arts community thrives. For Garrison Keillor fans, Minnesota was the setting for his tales of Lake Wobegon.

A common theme when referring to Minnesota residents, is to comment on their Scandinavian (predominantly Norwegian) heritage. You’ll hear many an “Uff Da” in this part of the country. You can get a full explanation of that Norwegian-ism here.

I’ve been to Minnesota a number of times, although it was primarily related to making a connection, or, unfortunately all to often, not making a connection. I haven’t ventured to far from the general airport area, so don’t have a lot to offer as far as what I’ve enjoyed in the state. Since I hate those cold winters, I avoid in it during that time, but the heat of the summer has never seemed to bother me.

A lot of my flight attendant friends have suggested a one-day layover just to do some shopping at the Mall of America — certainly something to consider.

Photo credit: Jon Rochetti

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Tags: b5media, flight attendants, Flyaway Cafe, travel, vacation, Minnesota, Minneapolis, St Paul, Twin Cities

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Here are some tips for this month:

• While I wish that all airports offered free wi-fi, that just isn’t the case. If you need access, but object to the daily fee, you can try sitting outside one of the airline club lounges to see if you can pick up the free connection that they offer guests. I was stuck at SFO for several hours last week, but unfortunately there were no club lounges close enough to get a connection strong enough to try.
• Consider upgrading to the American Express Platinum card. This tip falls under the category of spending money to save money, and is NOT for everyone. But — if you travel extensively, and spend lots of money on AmEx, this card yields some nice perks. The card fee is $395/year, and when you book through its travel service, a number of freebies are available, including continental breakfasts, late check outs, automatic room upgrades (if available), along with other specialized amenities. Depending on your situation, using these amenities may offset the price of the card in only one trip. Definitely not for everyone, but take a look.
• Buy “day of” tickets for the theater, at greatly reduced prices. New York and London have TKTS, but most cities have something comparable. You need to be flexible about what you want to see, but the discounts are deep and the seats aren’t bad. I’ve used TKTS in NYC, and have good luck. I check out the tickets available, and then, while I’m waiting in line, rank my top three choices. When I get to the front of the line, I can make my request, and have a backup ready to go in case my first choice isn’t available.
• If you’re going to be visiting attractions that have admission fees, consider a CityPass. Many cities have them (Boston, NYC, Seattle, etc.), and for the price of a pass, you receive admission to a list of attractions. You’ll need to do a little research to see what’s included in the city where you’ll be, but you can quickly do the math to see if you come out ahead.
• Research housing alternatives other than a hotel. If you’re going to be in one spot for a week or longer, a condo or extended-stay facility may be a good value. You’ll have kitchen facilities, and can save by eating in for some of your meals. This could represent a substantial savings if you’re traveling with a family.
• If you’re renting a car, consider how many miles you’ll be driving and compare that to the rental agency’s mileage policy. Although unlimited miles has become the norm, you don’t want to be hit with an unexpected, and expensive, excess mileage fee.
• Double check to make sure that your “convention” or “conference” room rate is really the best rate available. Most of the time it is, because the meeting planners have negotiated room rates based on a large number of people securing rooms. But, if the rooms are spread out over a number of hotels, or, if it’s a smaller group, remember to ask for other special rates that you may qualify for: AAA, AARP, other affinity group discounts, etc. I always ask: Is that the best rate that you can quote me, or is there another discount that may be a better option?

Thanks to readers and friends who sent in suggestions for this month’s list of Money Saving Travel Tips. If you’d like to contribute to June’s suggestions, just email me, or leave your tip in the comments of this post.

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Tags: airports, b5media, family travel, flight attendants, Flyaway Cafe, food & beverage, hotels, Money Saving Travel Tips, shopping, travel, travel tips, traveling with kids, vacation

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Those of us who have pets and travel, frequently have to balance a variety of issues in order to be good pet owners. Some people take their pets with them when they travel, others find pet sitters, others leave them alone for short periods of time, and enjoy quality relationships with them when they’re home. There’s no one right answer.

Sometimes the most responsible choice is to not be a pet owner at all. But what if you don’t want to miss out on that human – pet bonding experience?

If you live in Southern California, or are traveling there, you have an option with Flexpetz. With Flexpetz you can rent a dog for just a few hours or for up to a week at a time. If you’re in need of a little TLC when you’re on the road, or maybe need a few hours of unconditional love, a couple of hours with an adoring four-legged friend should do the trick.

The dogs are primarily rescues, have been through an extensive training program, and live in a cage-free environment. You can be content in the knowledge that while they’re helping you, you’re giving something back as well. This may be a perfect solution for those of you who travel regularly to the same location.

Your Flexpetz enrollment is a one time fee of $150 which covers a mandatory one hour introduction session with a FLEXPETZ trainer. The session covers basic information about the dogs, dog training and handling, along with a background check. After approval, you pay a monthly membership fee of $39.95,which goes toward providing full care for all of the dogs at the location, with a daily fee based on your particular visitation time and length. Membership also covers a Convenience Package that includes a dog bed, per-packaged food, a food and water bowls, and a leash.

Dog appointments can then be made online, and you choose from the dogs available at the location you wish, on your selected date and time. You can arrange to pick up the dog yourself, or use the Flexpetz shuttle to deliver and collect the dog to and from your home or office.

Your membership is valid at all Flexpetz locations. Currently, that’s only Los Angeles and San Diego, with Manhattan opening in June. Other planned US locations are: San Francisco, Seattle, Boston, Miami, Santa Monica, Long Beach, Chicago, Philadelphia, Houston, Phoenix, West Palm Beach, and Washington D.C. Other planned international locations are: London, Glasgow, Paris, Cannes, Sydney, and Tokyo.

Photo credit: SXC

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Tags: b5media, flight attendants, Flyaway Cafe, pets, travel, travel tips, traveling with pets, vacation, San Francisco, Los Angeles, California, dogs

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Post from: Fly Away Cafe